Kyidomhene of Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council, Nana Elluo Panyin III, has fervently advocated for increased investment in education to empower the youth and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
His call to action came during the 5th Annual Western North Regional Inter-District Quiz Competition for Junior High School students held at Enchi College of Education.
Addressing the gathering, Nana Elluo Panyin III reiterated the imperative of investing in education as a means to empower the youth and pave the way for a prosperous future.
Nana Elluo Panyin III addressed a pressing issue regarding the sponsorship of educational events. He highlighted the significant role that major stakeholders, including municipal and district assemblies, members of parliament, traditional councils, civil societies, and companies, should play in sponsoring such events.
He lamented the lack of substantial support from these key stakeholders over the years, noting that the headline sponsor for the competition has consistently been Chirano Gold Mines in collaboration with the Western North Regional House of Chiefs.
According to Nana, this sponsorship, while appreciated, has been insufficient to meet the growing needs of educational initiatives in the region.
He underscored the importance of utilizing funds allocated for such activities, such as sections of the Common Fund, which should ideally be directed towards supporting educational events like the quiz competition.
However, challenges such as the non-payment of the Common Fund and other administrative hurdles have hindered the effective utilization of these resources.
Despite these challenges, Nana Elluo Panyin III expressed gratitude towards supportive entities like Chirano Gold Mines, whose efforts in promoting education in the Western North region have been commendable.
The Kyidomhene of Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council called for increased collaboration and support from all sectors to ensure the success and sustainability of educational events like the quiz competition.
He emphasized that investing in education is crucial for the development and empowerment of youth, ultimately contributing to the progress and prosperity of the entire community.
On his part, Joseph William Anyan, the Senior Community Relations Officer of Chirano Gold Mines, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to education in the Western North Region. He highlighted education as a fundamental pillar for the future development of their catchment communities.
“Over the years, the company has invested significantly in educational infrastructure, including schools, ICT centers, and science labs, to equip students with the necessary tools for academic excellence. Recognizing the crucial role of educators, Chirano Gold Mines has also prioritized empowering teachers and providing incentives to those dedicated to shaping the minds of the next generation.”
Joseph William Anyan expressed gratitude to teachers and underscored the company’s Charter of Self-Humans Scholarship Scheme, which sponsors 54 individuals, aiming to eliminate financial barriers and enable bright young minds to pursue higher education.
Witnessing the impressive display of knowledge and intellect at events like the quiz competition, Joseph William Anyan expressed optimism for the future and encouraged students to embrace curiosity and lifelong learning.
He urged students to seize every opportunity to expand their horizons and never cease pursuing their dreams.
Joseph William Anyan concluded by expressing appreciation to event organizers and reiterated the importance of continued investment in education to empower youth and build a brighter future for generations to come.
Shirley Blankson, the Municipal Director of Education for Aowin, who spoke on behalf of the Western North Regional Director of Education, Seth Boateng, stated that education is the key to success and that events like these aim to foster intellectual growth, knowledge acquisition, and student patronage.
Acknowledging the hard work of teachers in preparing students for the competition, She expressed gratitude and appreciation for their tireless efforts in nurturing bright minds and shaping the future of the region.
Shirley Blankson also extended thanks to sponsors and organizers for their invaluable support in making the event possible.
She assured continued support from the Regional Education Directorate in implementing educational policies and initiatives for the improvement of teaching and learning in the region.
